The New World Screwworm, a parasitic fly that infests warm-blooded animals, has been detected in a cow in northwest Medina County Texas. This discovery has led to the establishment of Infested Zone 09 encompassing parts of BanderaMedina and Uvalde counties. The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) has imposed strict quarantine measures to prevent the spread of this potentially fatal infestation.
The New World Screwworm is a serious threat to livestock, as its larvae burrow into living tissue, causing a condition known as myiasis. This infestation can lead to severe pain and even death if left untreated. The TAHC has been actively monitoring and responding to the spread of this pest, which was first confirmed in the U.S. on June 3 in a calf from La Pryor.
Expansion of Infested Zones
As of June 24 there are 17 active cases of the New World Screwworm in Texas, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The establishment of Infested Zone 09 marks the ninth active infestation zone in the state. This zone includes portions of UvaldeBandera and Medina counties, as well as parts of GillespieKerr and Kimble counties under Infested Zone 03 which was established on June 9.
The TAHC has created a map showing the affected areas, which can be accessed at /49revjax. The map highlights the extent of the infestation and the surveillance zones where vigilance is crucial. The TAHC has also imposed movement restrictions on any warm-blooded animal within the infestation zones to prevent the spread of the pest.
Quarantine Measures and Movement Restrictions
Under the quarantine measures, no warm-blooded animal may leave the infested zones without prior authorization from the TAHC. To move an animal out of the zone, it must be inspected, treated, and issued a permit or certificate by a TAHC representative. Additionally, hides, carcasses, and any animal parts capable of hosting the fly must also be inspected and treated before they leave the zone. Unauthorized movement is subject to administrative penalties and possible criminal prosecution.
The quarantine order took effect immediately and will remain in force until the TAHC lifts it. The TAHC has also urged producers and veterinarians to report any suspected infestations within 24 hours. Suspected infestations in wildlife should be reported to a local Texas Parks and Wildlife Department biologist. The TAHC’s 24-hour line for reporting suspected cases is 1-800-550-8242.
Impact on Livestock Owners
The establishment of Infested Zone 09 has compounded the restrictions faced by livestock owners in the affected counties. The new zone’s northern boundary runs along the Balcones Escarpment which marks the southern edge of the Hill Country and the top of Bandera County bordering Kerr County. With recent detections in Edwards County to the west, the pest has now been confirmed or quarantined to Kerr County‘s north, northwest, west, and south.
Livestock owners are advised to check their animals for open wounds and to clean, treat, and cover any openings promptly. The TAHC has emphasized the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting to contain the spread of the New World Screwworm. The state has kept a disaster proclamation in place since Jan. 29 with Governor Greg Abbott renewing it monthly and issuing a new one on June 5 after the parasite reached Texas.